Booster car seats play an essential role in ensuring the safety and comfort of your child as they grow. As parents, we look to provide the best for our children while navigating everyday travel. When it comes to keeping them secure in cars, booster seats are the next step after outgrowing traditional car seats.
Booster car seats generally cater to children aged four and up, who weigh between 40 and 100 pounds, and are about 57 inches tall. These seats elevate the child, allowing the vehicle’s seat belt to fit snugly across the child’s chest and lower hips to prevent injuries in case of an accident. With a wide range of booster seats available in the US market, selecting the right one can be a daunting task for parents.
When considering the purchase of a booster car seat, factors such as the seat’s compatibility with your vehicle, ease of installation, overall comfort, and most importantly, safety features should be taken into account. You may also want to consider a convertible booster seat that adapts as your child grows, ensuring a long-lasting investment in their safety and well-being.
In this article, we have researched and compiled a list of the best booster car seats available in the US, taking these critical factors into account. Read on to find out which booster seat is best suited for your family’s needs as we dive into detailed reviews and comparisons.
Best Booster Car Seats
We have carefully selected the top booster car seats in the US, ensuring our list includes options to accommodate various needs and preferences. Browse through our recommendations below to find the perfect fit for you and your child.
Chicco KidFit Zip Plus 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat
The Chicco KidFit Zip Plus is a great choice for parents looking for a durable and comfortable booster car seat with convenient features for children aged 4 years and up.
Pros
- Excellent head and body protection with DuoGuard technology
- LATCH connectors and SuperCinch tightener for secure installation and easy transfer
- Zip-off cushions for added comfort and easy cleaning
Cons
- May not be suitable for smaller vehicles
- The size and shape of the headrest might not be ideal for all children
- Limited reclining options compared to other models
The Chicco KidFit Zip Plus 2-in-1 booster car seat offers a high level of safety with its rigid shell and EPS energy-absorbing foam for head and body support. The 10-position headrest is adjustable from the waist instead of the neck, ensuring comfortable support and protection for your child.
With premium LATCH connectors and the SuperCinch one-pull tightener, this booster seat is stable and easy to install in your vehicle. The quick-release LATCH system allows convenient one-hand removal for easy transfer between vehicles, making it a practical option for families on the go.
The stylish, quilted seat and backrest cushions not only provide extra padding and comfort for your child but are also easy to zip off for cleaning or storage. All fabrics, including armrest covers, are removable and machine washable.
In addition, the Chicco KidFit Zip Plus features two dishwasher-safe CupFolders that fold out of the way when not in use, as well as a bonus storage console that fits into either CupFolder for added convenience.
Though the seat may not be best suited for smaller vehicles due to its size, and some children may not find the headrest shape ideal, the Chicco KidFit Zip Plus is overall a solid booster car seat option with excellent safety features, comfort, and convenience.
Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat
The Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is a reliable and versatile choice for growing families who value safety and convenience.
Pros
- Extended Use: forward-facing with harness, 30-65 pounds and Belt-positioning Booster, 40-120 pounds
- Designed to fit 3 ACROSS in most vehicles
- Lightweight and easy to move from car to car
Cons
- Limited height adjustment options
- Lack of recline feature
- Basic, minimalistic design
The Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is designed to grow with your child, offering extended use in both forward-facing with harness and belt-positioning booster modes. With the ability to accommodate children from 30 to 65 pounds in the harness mode and 40 to 120 pounds in the belt-positioning booster mode, this car seat offers long-lasting value for your family.
One of the best features of this car seat is its compatibility with most vehicles. Designed to fit 3 across in the back seat, the Grand 2-in-1 is great for growing families or those who frequently carpool. Additionally, its lightweight design makes it easy to move between cars, which is a significant advantage for busy families on the go.
The deluxe fabric used in the car seat offers comfort and ergonomic support at key pressure points for your child. Paired with an adjustable headrest, this car seat provides customizable support to keep your child comfortable throughout your trips. However, this car seat has limited height adjustment options and lacks a recline feature, which might be a concern for some families.
Despite its basic and minimalistic design, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat remains an excellent choice for families in search of a reliable, versatile, and convenient car seat solution. The easy-to-clean seat pad, along with two removable and dishwasher-safe cup holders, adds to the user-friendly features of this car seat. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of other car seats on the market, it provides safety and function at an affordable price.
Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat in Organic Waves
The Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is a versatile and durable option for those seeking extended use and convenience for growing children.
Pros
- Extended use for kids weighing 30-100 pounds
- Designed to fit 3 across in most vehicles
- Lightweight and easy to move between cars
Cons
- Wide seat might take up more space
- Lacks additional padding for comfort
- No base included
As a 2-in-1 booster car seat, the Cosco Finale DX accommodates a wide range of weights in both forward-facing mode with a harness (30-65 pounds) and belt-positioning booster mode (40-100 pounds). This versatility allows for extended use and adapts well to the needs of growing children. Furthermore, the seat is made from recycled materials as part of the Cosco Kids Organic Waves collection, offering an eco-friendly option.
Designed to fit three seats across in most vehicles, the Cosco Finale DX is ideal for families with multiple car-seat-using children or carpooling needs. Despite the wide seat design, which provides comfort for larger children, this car seat is lightweight and easy to transfer between cars, making it perfect for busy and active families.
On the downside, some users might feel that the wide seat takes up more space than necessary, making it a tight fit in smaller vehicles. It also lacks additional padding that some other car seats offer for added comfort. Another minor drawback is the absence of a base, which some parents might prefer for added stability.
In conclusion, the Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat in Organic Waves is a versatile, eco-friendly, and lightweight car seat option with extended use capabilities for growing families. While it has some minor drawbacks, its positive features make it worth considering for parents looking for a booster car seat that can fit multiple seats in the back of most vehicles.
Peg Perego Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120
The Peg Perego Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120 is an excellent choice for those seeking a highly adjustable and comfortable booster car seat with a touch of Italian craftsmanship.
Pros
- 3D total adjust technology for customized comfort
- Integrated Rigid LATCH for easy installation and stability
- Transforms from high-back to backless booster for growing children
Cons
- Cup holder may be small and unstable
- Narrow headrest area reported by some users
- Pricier than some alternatives
Peg Perego’s Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120 offers top-notch safety and comfort for your child with its 3D total adjust technology. This feature allows the booster to be adjusted in four different directions independently: the headrest, upper backrest, and side wings. It ensures personalized comfort and support for your growing child, accommodating their changing size and needs.
With its Integrated Rigid LATCH system, installing and securing the booster in your vehicle is easy and efficient. The blind lock attaching system prevents it from being accidentally released by other passengers, giving you peace of mind. If LATCH is not available, the system can be tucked into the base for seamless installation using the seatbelt.
The Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120 grows with your child, transitioning from a high-back booster to a backless booster simply by removing the backrest. This 2-in-1 capability saves you from additional expenses and storage drawbacks of buying separate boosters. The booster is designed with an aluminum-reinforced backrest that provides protection against whiplash in the event of a front-end accident and additional security during a rear-end collision.
Keep in mind that some users report the cup holder as being small and unstable, which may cause inconvenience for children’s drinks. Additionally, the narrow headrest area might not provide enough space for some children, depending on their size and head shape. Though the Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120 may be more expensive compared to its competitors, its unique features, adaptability, and refined Italian design make it a worthy investment for parents seeking a reliable and comfortable booster car seat.
Graco TurboBooster Highback Booster Seat, Glacier
The Graco TurboBooster Highback Booster Seat is a great option for your growing child, offering safety, comfort, and practical features.
Pros
- 2-in-1: converts from highback to backless booster
- Height-adjustable head support and armrests
- Hideaway cup holders for convenience
Cons
- No LATCH system included
- Minimum weight increased to 40 lb from 30 lb
- Bulkier than some other booster seat options
The Graco TurboBooster Highback Booster Seat offers a comfortable and safe solution for parents seeking a booster seat for their big kids. With its ability to convert from a highback to a backless booster, this seat can accommodate your child as they grow, ensuring they are always protected and properly positioned in the car.
One of the standout features of this booster seat is its height-adjustable head support and armrests, which provide extra comfort and a tailored fit for your child. Additionally, the hideaway cup holders offer a practical perk for keeping drinks and snacks close at hand during trips.
While the Graco TurboBooster Highback Booster Seat has many positives, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The absence of a LATCH system may be a dealbreaker for some parents, as it requires the vehicle seat belt for installation. Additionally, the minimum weight requirement has been increased from 30 lb to 40 lb, which may impact the suitability for smaller children. Lastly, this booster seat is bulkier than some other options on the market, which could be a concern for parents with limited space in their vehicle.
In conclusion, the Graco TurboBooster Highback Booster Seat is a solid choice for parents looking to safely and comfortably transport their big kids, with convenient features like height-adjustable head support and armrests, and hideaway cup holders. However, the absence of a LATCH system and the increased minimum weight requirement may impact its suitability for some families.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best booster car seat, there are a few essential features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of elements to help you make an informed decision.
Ease of Installation and Use
It’s important to find a booster car seat that is easy to install and use. Choose a seat that can be securely fastened with your vehicle’s seat belt system or LATCH connectors. Ensure that the height and width adjustments are easy to navigate.
Comfort and Support
A quality booster seat should provide proper support and comfort to your child. Consider a seat with sufficient padding, headrest, and backrest. Additionally, look for adjustable features to accommodate your child as they grow.
Safety Features
Safety should be a priority when choosing a booster seat. Here are some features to look for:
- Side-impact protection
- Energy-absorbing foam
- Five-point harness
Weight and Height Limits
Booster car seats are designed for different weight and height limits. It’s important to choose a seat that meets your child’s specific needs and complies with the recommended guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Certification and Testing
Ensure that the booster car seat meets or exceeds the required safety standards as set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Look for a label on the seat that confirms it has been tested and certified.
Ease of Cleaning
Children can be messy, so it’s essential to choose a booster car seat with removable and washable fabric. This will save you time and effort when it comes to keeping the seat clean and hygienic.
To recap, focus on:
- Ease of Installation and Use
- Comfort and Support
- Safety Features
- Weight and Height Limits
- Certification and Testing
- Ease of Cleaning
By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the best booster car seat for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can a child use a highback booster car seat?
As a general guideline, children can start using a highback booster car seat once they outgrow their forward-facing car seat, which is typically around 4 to 5 years old. However, it’s important to consider your child’s height and weight, as well as the specific guidelines provided by the booster seat manufacturer. It’s crucial to ensure your child meets the minimum height and weight requirements for the booster seat to ensure their safety.
Which booster seat is best for a 5-year-old?
Determining the best booster seat for a 5-year-old depends on individual preferences, as well as your child’s height, weight, and comfort. Some popular highback booster car seats in the market include the Graco Highback TurboBooster, Britax Skyline, and Chicco KidFit. These seats offer features such as adjustable headrests, multiple recline positions, and LATCH systems for easy installation. When selecting a booster seat, always ensure it adheres to the safety standards and guidelines specific to your region.
What are the seat requirements for booster seats?
Booster seat requirements vary depending on your location and local laws. Generally, booster seats are designed for children who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats and are not yet ready for adult seat belts. Requirements may specify a minimum height and weight, as well as age ranges for children using booster seats. It’s essential to verify the specific requirements for your area and adhere to them for your child’s safety.
Which harness booster seat is the most comfortable?
Comfort levels can be subjective, and the most comfortable harness booster seat for one child may not be the same for another. When evaluating comfort, consider factors like padding, seat design, and adjustability. Some popular, comfortable harness booster seat options include the Britax Frontier ClickTight, Graco Nautilus 65 LX, and Evenflo Maestro Sport. It’s essential to prioritize both safety features and comfort, as a comfortable seat will encourage your child to sit properly and securely throughout the journey.
What are other recommended baby car seat brands?
There are several other reputable baby car seat brands available. Some popular options include Graco, Chicco, Safety 1st, Cosatto, Silver Cross, Cybex, Diono, Britax, Baby Trend, Peg Perego, Evenflo UPPAbaby and Maxi-Cosi. When choosing a car seat, consider factors such as safety features, ease of use, and compatibility with your vehicle. Always consult expert reviews and conduct thorough research to ensure you make an informed decision for your family’s safety.
